Finding Five Points

Imagine that you can 'find' five points during each set. Where might they be? 

• Reading a hitter better ("tells") that allow defenders to get to the short ball. Coach Donny discusses disguising your attacks. 
• Communication (one or two plays that weren't called well enough)
• Service (avoid one or two service errors from lack of focus or consistency)
• Closing the double block quicker (this might belong first). 

They don't always show up as Bill Belichick's "Got to have it" points late in the set.

Years ago Melrose lost a basketball game by one to Lexington. Lexington celebrated as though they had won the national championship. People bemoaned the 'last shot'. 

Lexington scored four points in the first minute on second chance points when defensive rebounders didn't block out. Points given away early in a match count the same as those later. Sometimes not making plays early takes pressure off opponents, magnifying their importance.

Be intentional in your club practices and games. These relate to technique not strategy. Strategy (tactics) can also add points. 

• Focus on reading the setter/hitter combo
• Be aware of your communication, "calling the ball"
• Work on the mechanics and targeting service process
• Blockers, track your "blocks per set." They should rise with better concentration, anticipation, reaction, and execution. 

Bestsellers have titles like "Don't Sweat the Small Stuff." And they're never written about sports where attention to detail separates excellent from good. 

Lagniappe. A commonsense tip on passing, translating practice to performance.